AFGE Demands Clean Funding to End Shutdown

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), representing roughly 800,000–820,000 federal and D.C. workers, is urging Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution immediately to end the government shutdown and restore pay. AFGE President Everett Kelley said both parties have made their point and demanded no “half measures” or “gamesmanship,” calling for full back pay and a swift reopening of the government. The statement intensifies pressure on Senate Democrats, who have repeatedly blocked a GOP-backed short-term funding bill while seeking commitments to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies and other health-care priorities. The shutdown has left many workers missing paychecks and raised alarms about food-stamp funding and other service disruptions. AFGE has also pursued legal action related to the shutdown and related personnel moves, highlighting the financial and legal stakes facing federal employees. The union's stance represents a notable break with its traditional alignment with Democrats and increases political pressure to resolve the stalemate.